Prominent Pancreatic Lipase Inhibition and Free Radical Scavenging Activity of a Myristica fragrans Ethanolic Extract in vitro. Potential Role in Obesity Treatment.

Objective:The objective of the present study was to evaluate the antioxidant and lipase inhibitory potential of various extracts of Myristica fragrans (in vitro). Material and methods:Ethanolic extracts of Myristica fragrans were studied for their free radical scavenging and lipase inhibitory potentials by using porcine lipase, PNPB and DPPH. All results were obtained by applying active formulas and calculating the percentage of inhibition. Results:Among all extracts, Myristica fragrans ethanolic extract has shown the strongest pancreatic lipase inhibitory activity at 100 ìg/mL (66.24%), with the closest potency to tthat of the standard drug, Orlistat (81.57%). This extract has also exhibited a potent antioxidant activity. The findings of the present study clearly showed that DPPH free radical scavenging activity of MFE produced 88% inhibition at 5 mg/mL as compared to standard ascorbic acid, which was 90%. Conclusions:Ethanolic extracts of Myristica fragrans had a marked PL inhibitory action and antioxidant effect. Therefore, based on this research evidence, they could be aternatively used for obesity treatment.